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The Dangers of Obese Chihuahuas
It’s hard to imagine that your energetic little Chihuahua could ever have a weight problem. How could he possibly gain too much weight with all of the exercise he is getting? It can happen faster than you might think if he isn’t been fed the proper foods.
Your Chihuahua should be fed three times a day, with a dog food that consists of meat. It should be 30 percent protein, four percent fiber, and 20 percent fat. The fiber content can be a bit higher, but should not be less, and the protein and fat content should not be higher than the amounts stated here.
As for snacks, they should consist of treats designed specifically for dogs. Treats can consist of small bites of peanut butter or cheese, but should not be given daily, unless they are being used for training purposes.
Diabetes is a real possibility if the Chihuahua becomes overweight. The cost of treating diabetes in dogs can be quite expensive, and due to the great expense, many owners have no other choice but to have the dog put to sleep simply because they cannot afford the treatment. This is a sad end for the dog and the owner, and the only way to avoid it is to keep your dogs weight in check.
Another problem associated with obesity in Chihuahuas is arthritis and other joint problems in the legs. The excess weight is very hard on their joints, and the dog could eventually be rendered immobile if he is overweight.
Weigh your dog once a month. Find out from your veterinarian how much the dog should weigh, and while he is growing, know how much he should weigh at different ages. Purchase a kitchen scale to help you accurately weigh your Chihuahua, as a bathroom scale used for humans really won’t suffice.
If your dog is gaining too much weight too fast, make an appointment with your veterinarian. Be prepared to tell the veterinarian what the dog is being fed, and how much of it is he being fed as well as how many times a day he is being fed. The veterinarian may also inquire as to how much exercise the Chihuahua is getting.
If the dog is gaining too much weight, the best chance for the dog is to catch this early and make adjustments to his diet. The weight gain should stop or slow down, and the dog should lose any excess weight fairly easy with the change in his diet. Keep your veterinarian informed on this matter, and make sure that you don’t go back to old habits when it comes to feeding your Chihuahua.
Chihuahua information, Chihuahua tips, Chihuahua advice
Next Article: Will Your Chihuahua Have a Bad Temper
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